The Best Family-Friendly Adventures In Hawaii
The Best Family-Friendly Adventures in Hawaii
Hawaii is the ultimate paradise – warm, tranquil water, the perfect climate, breathtaking scenery and a variety of adventure sports are just some of the many things you have to look forward to.
A family trip to Hawaii is not complete without experiencing the 'Ulalena Show, snorkeling beneath the crystal clear water, visiting two of the islands most active volcanoes, relaxing under the sun at the beach and taking surf lessons.
Bond with your family – take pictures by beautiful waterfalls, attend a luau, learn about Hawaii's history and eat incredible food.
Continue reading to find out why your next family vacation should be in Hawaii.
Maui Ocean Center, Wailuku
Explore Hawaii's marine life at the Maui Ocean Center. The kids will love viewing the underwater world at this spectacular aquarium. View sharks, stingrays, turtles and a variety of colorful, tropical fish. There's a ton of exhibits, one of which includes a 54-foot walk-through tunnel. Bonus: TripAdvisor named it one of the Top 25 Best Aquariums in the U.S.
Take Surf Lessons
Hawaii is one of the best places to learn how to surf. There are a variety of surf camps to choose from, some of which include the Kauai Surf School in Kauai and the Goofy Foot Surf School in Maui. Both schools provide surf lessons to surfers of all-levels. They focus on teaching surfers ocean awareness, safety and surfing fundamentals. This is the perfect opportunity to bond with your family, while also learning a new water sport.
Go to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Visit two of the world's most active volcanoes, go on family hike on over 100 miles of trails and bike ride through deserts and rain forests. Visit the beautiful Holei Sea Arch, explore the Thurston Lava tube, check out the Thomas A. Jagger Museum and gather together for "After Dark in the Park." *See: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: 5 Things to See and Do
Atlantis Submarine
If you are visiting Waikiki, Maui or Kona you have the opportunity to explore Hawaii on the Atlantis Submarine. Reach depths of approximately 100 feet and view a variety of marine wildlife including sharks, stingrays, eels and green turtles.
Visit Pearl Harbor
Take the family on a historical tour to Pearl Harbor in Oahu. Learn about the devastating attack that marked the USA's entrance into World War Two. Pearl Harbor Tours are available daily and all tours include a trip to the USS Arizona Memorial and round trip transportation (pearlharboroahu.com).
Attend a Luau
You can't visit Hawaii without attending a luau! It is one of the best ways to embrace the Hawaiian culture. Enjoy delicious foods, watch beautiful dance performances and admire their over the top costumes.
Go on a Hike
There are a variety of places to go hiking in Hawaii. Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and hike the Kilauea Summit Trails, the Earthquake Trail, Devastation Trail and Crater Rim Trails. Maui is also full of incredible hikes. Hike Twin Falls and view tropical waterfalls. Explore the Waihu Spring Trail Loop and capture the view from Maui's North Shore coastline. For some great kid-friendly hikes, visit Oahu and hike the Kealia Trail and the Makiki Valley Loop Trail.
'Ulalena Show
If you are visiting Maui, make sure you take your family to the 'Ulalena show. According to the Maui Theatre, "'Ulalena shares the rich history of Hawaii through authentic Hawaiian music, dance and over 100 instruments played live in a dynamic, colorful, emotional, and entertaining theatrical performance." National Geographic called it a "spectacular theatrical sensation."
Go Snorkeling
A visit to Hawaii is not complete without snorkeling beneath the crystal clear water and swimming with tropical fish and other underwater creatures. Some of the best places to go snorkeling in Hawaii include Hanauma Bay in Oahu, Molokini Crater in Maui and Ke'e Beach Park in Kauai.
Drive the Road to Hana
Tired of hiking a biking? Take a road trip with your family on The Road to Hana. It is one of the most popular adventures to embark on in Maui. View black sand beaches, stunning waterfalls, beautiful oceans, unique jungles and super high cliffs. Places to visit along your drive include, Pua'a Ka'a State Park, Waianapanapa State Park and Wailua Falls. It is advised to time your excursions for weekdays in the early morning (National Geographic).